There is a wealth of research demonstrating just how critical social and emotional skills are to children’s future health and wellbeing. From our mental and physical health to our ability to form positive relationships, so much of what makes us who we are is shaped and influenced by these skills – and there is no question that the foundations for this vital development are laid, first and foremost, in the early years.

Of course, supporting the social and emotional development of the next generation is no small task. It will take significant long-term investment and thoughtful policies that encourage and prioritise high-quality interactions and attachments, both within early years settings and in the home. And yet, in the short term, there is still plenty we can do help young children develop these critical skills.

That’s why we at the Early Years Alliance are so excited to be working with the LEGO Group, and in association with the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, to deliver 3,000 LEGO^® Education Build Me “Emotions” and “Exhibitors” sets to registered early years providers across the whole of the country.

This initiative is part of the LEGO Group’s participation in the Royal Foundation Business Taskforce for Early Childhood. The Taskforce published a report this summer which identified five opportunities where businesses can have real impact. Strengthening social and emotional development was one of these areas. More information about the Taskforce’s work and the donation is available here and here.

Designed to help children to explore their emotions in a playful way, the Build Me “Emotions” sets will be accompanied by virtual training tools that are being developed to support best practice across early years providers – and it is our hope that these sets will provide particular support to settings working with children and families from more disadvantaged areas and communities.

How to register your interest for a LEGO set

If you’re an Ofsted-registered early years provider, you can register your interest in claiming a free LEGO^® Education Build Me “Emotions”  set to collect at this year’s Childcare & Education EXPO at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 September 2024 – you can register for your free ticket to the event here.

To do so, simply fill out this form and complete the requested information, including your Ofsted Unique Reference Number (URN). It’s important to note that sets are limited to one per setting, and will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis. Completing the form registers your interest but does not guarantee that your setting will be allocated a set.

Once you have submitted your form, you will receive an email confirming whether or not a set has been reserved for you and, if so, how and when you can collect it from the Early Years Alliance stand at the event.

Those providers who do receive a set will receive further details of the accompanying online training tools by email.

This is an exciting initiative and one we’re incredibly pleased to be a part of. We look forward to seeing you at this year’s event!